The Hong Kong Article Numbering Association is creating an online database that gives products and services standardised identities, to aid international trading and logistics.
The non-profit association, set up by the Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce in 1989, plans to build the 'global e-ID repository', with a number of technology and service partners.
The association provides a product registration service for companies, which gives their goods unique identification numbers.
Association chief executive Anna Lin said the depository would provide 'a central point for all supply chain product information for all industries'.
It will allow buyers and sellers to identify products and services more efficiently and to reduce costs, Ms Lin said.
It also aims to provide a 'common language' for accurate and efficient communication in electronic procurement, inventory and warehouse management, business planning and market research.
